"When students see teachers who come from a similar background to them, they begin to believe that they have the possibility to go on to achieve what they want to achieve as well."

Department

Special Education

Related Degrees

• Post-Baccalaureate Certificate, Special Education (PBSPED)

Why did you choose to become a teacher, in general?

I decided to become a teacher because I am passionate about creating a more compassionate society.

Why did you choose to become licensed in special education?

I decided to become a licensed special education teacher because I grew up with a brother with a severe intellectual disability. From helping my brother with his home instruction classes, I got my first job as an educational assistant for special education. I worked as an educational assistant for 3 years and truly enjoyed working with the students. The natural next step would be for me to become a special education teacher.

Why do you feel it is important to have diversity in the classroom?

I feel it is important to have diversity in the classroom because students start to believe in themselves and therefore become more motivated. When students see teachers who come from a similar background to them, they begin to believe that they have the possibility to go on to achieve what they want to achieve as well. At the same time, diversity teaches students cultural sensitivity, and how to get along with and appreciate people who are different from them.